[sbe-eas] Question for the group about the new MEP EAS Code

[Sean Donelan]

In most states local governments use (or do not use) alert systems how 
ever they want, without regard to anything written by the unofficial, 
volunteer SECCs.  Unlike broadcasters, wireless providers do not pick & 
choose individual alerts.  Although WEA is 'voluntary,' its all or 
nothing.

Based on my monitoring of broadcasters in a few large metro areas, 
besides Local-Primar (LP) stations, very few of the 18,000 broadcasters 
carry Amber alerts.  I expect even fewer will interrupt programming for 
the new MEP codes.

The number of missing people, as defined by FBI NCIC data, peaked at just 
under 1 million people per year in 1998.  And has fallen to around
600,000 reports per year in 2022. About 99% of the missing reports
are eventually resolved.  Stranger abductions remain rare, most are 
a non-custodial parent or runaways.

The FCC has no data to measure the performance of MEP or to make its 
decision other than 'vibes' and 'politics.'

Shouting into the void.